The story revolves around Mary, who has moved from Dunsterville to New York and is working as a secretary for Joe. She is befriended by Eddy, an old acquaintance from her hometown, who tries to win her favor. However, it becomes clear that Eddy's intentions are not entirely pure, as he asks Mary to mail him a copy of a letter that Joe will be writing to another man, Weston. Joe reveals that he has been aware of Eddy's attempts to get early information on the market and has been trying to keep him at bay. He also confesses his own feelings for Mary, which have remained unchanged since their days in Dunsterville. Mary is taken aback by Joe's confession and seems to be considering her feelings for him. The story takes a humorous turn when Eddy suddenly leaves the table without paying for his lunch, leaving Joe to foot the bill. The waiter comments on the situation, saying "Ze pill, sare," which Joe interprets as Eddy having left him to pay for his lunch. Overall, the story is a lighthearted and humorous tale of love, friendship, and deception in the city of New York.
By P. G. Wodehouse · First published 1929 · Genre: Comedy, Fiction, Humor